Alarm raised over amendments to Road Accident Fund Act
Lawyers warn of “dire consequences” for South African road users
law
SARS confirms vessels detained over fuel bunkering supply chain
SARS confirms vessels detained over fuel bunkering supply chain
The South African Revenue Service (SARS) has confirmed the detention of several vessels involved in the fuel bunkering supply chain.
Responding to a media report concerning the detention of five bunker barges at the Algoa Bay anchorage by Port Elizabeth, over alleged illegal bunker operations, SARS Commissioner Edward Kieswetter said from 2016 SARS has been engaging with the fuel industry to encourage compliance with the legislation concerning the importation, the trading in and other operational activities of vessels engaged in the supply of fuel.
Alongside these engagements, Kieswetter said, SARS has also been conducting investigations around compliance in fuel bunkering, and the detention of the vessels mentioned in the media article is part of the ongoing investigation.
Kieswetter confirmed that several vessels were detained in terms of the Customs and Excise Act, 91 of 1964, and this was done in the normal course of investigating whether the provisions of the Act have been contravened.
He said SARS is of the view that the detention is lawful and as the investigation is ongoing, “no decision to seize such vessels has been taken”.
“SARS is obliged to administer the law fairly, without fear, favour or prejudice and to conduct investigations in a responsible manner, in accordance with fair procedure. SARS has no interest in jeopardising economic growth or of contributing to the problem of unemployment, poverty and inequality,” Kieswetter said in a statement.
The Commissioner implored taxpayers and traders to comply with their tax and customs obligations, warning that SARS will not hesitate to act firmly and robustly to ensure that “non-compliance is hard and costly for those that wilfully and intentionally ignore their obligations”.
“The clarion call to all taxpayers and traders is - comply or face the consequences,” Kieswetter warned. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Thu, 09/21/2023 - 10:46
126 views
Taxis bring traffic on active uMhlanga road to a standstill
To restore calm to the area, authorities agreed to temporarily allow taxis to park near Ocean Mall
RICA bill misses the chance for real reform
As Concourt deadline approaches, there are still too many loopholes in the law that allow privacy rights to be infringed
Call for rearrest of man accused of kidnapping nine-year-old girl
Call for rearrest of man accused of kidnapping nine-year-old girl
Law enforcement agencies have been called to swiftly rearrest a man who is allegedly involved in the kidnapping of a nine-year-old girl.
According to a report, the child from Sigedleni in Ixobho, in Southern KwaZulu-Natal was reported missing on 30 August 2023 and found in a harrowing situation on 02 September 2023.
It was reported that the child was being locked inside a house by a neighbour who allegedly sexually abused her.
The accused was initially apprehended and brought before the local magistrate's court. However, he was released last week after a rape case was not placed on the court roll.
KwaZulu-Natal Social Development MEC Nonhlanhla Khoza has expressed deep dismay at the incident and called for rearrest of the accused.
“Cases of rape and gender-based violence (GBV) are very serious and should not be allowed to go unpunished. We expect the police and relevant authorities to take immediate and decisive action to ensure that justice is served and that the perpetrator does not evade accountability,” Khoza said.
The MEC said it was disappointing that the suspect was let off the hook after the case was not put on the court roll.
“The department is committed to working closely with law enforcement agencies, community organisations and all stakeholders to provide support and assistance to the affected child and her family. We are also dedicated to implementing measures that will help prevent such heinous acts from occurring in future,” the MEC said.
Khoza said the department has dispatched a team of social workers to meet with the family and ensure the safety of the girl.
Campaign against substance abuse
Meanwhile, Khoza will today spearhead a campaign aimed at combating substance abuse and eradicating the illegal drug trade within the Mpembeni area of Umhlathuze, particularly in Ward 13.
The campaign seeks to address the significant challenges posed by drug peddling, including prevention, rehabilitation, community education and law enforcement efforts.
The key objectives of the campaign include:
• Engaging with local residents to raise awareness about the dangers of substance abuse and the importance of community unity in fighting this issue.
• Collaborating with law enforcement agencies to increase patrols and intelligence efforts to combat drug trafficking and apprehend those involved.
• Ensuring that individuals struggling with substance abuse have access to treatment and rehabilitation services to aid in their recovery and reintegration into society.
• Implementing educational programs in schools and community centres to prevent the initiation of drug use among youth.
• Offering support to families affected by substance abuse, providing guidance, counselling and resources to help them cope.
“Khoza, along with key stakeholders from law enforcement agencies, local government officials, community leaders and experts in the field will roll out this critical campaign,” the department said.
The event will be held at Mpembeni Sportsground. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Tue, 09/19/2023 - 10:47
545 views
Mining Department Refuses West Coast Prospecting Bid
Government turned down Limpopo-based Nekwana Trading Enterprise’s application because of shortcomings in basic impact assessment
Africa ready for novel investment – President Ramaphosa
Africa ready for new investment – President Ramaphosa
President Cyril Ramaphosa has told American business representatives that Africa is ready for new investment and strong partnerships.
The President was delivering remarks at the US - South Africa Trade and Investment Business Roundtable Dialogue in New York on Monday.
“Africa is ready for new investment and strong partnerships. South Africa is well positioned as the continent’s industrial centre, with deep capital markets, the rule of law, protection of property rights and a dynamic and youthful population.
“The significant presence of US companies operating in South Africa, including Ford, Coca-Cola, Pepsico, Procter & Gamble, Google, Amazon and Walmart, among many others, forms a base for increased investment,” the President said.
President Ramaphosa said he was pleased to hear that the US Africa Business Council and BUSA will be hosting the inaugural business and investment forum on the margins of the AGOA Forum scheduled to be held in South Africa in November 2023.
He said this platform will present the countries’ respective governments, private sectors and civil society with numerous opportunities to advance trade and investment relations.
“I look forward to our discussions and encourage your candid views. I also look forward to welcoming all of the companies present here today to South Africa in November this year during the AGOA Forum… I look forward to building and strengthening business relationships that will accelerate growth, enable commercial success and ensure prosperity for both our countries,” President Ramaphosa said.
Global prosperity
The President told the business representatives that global prosperity has been founded on greater levels of openness and engagement between nations and people.
He said in recent decades, a more open, rules-based trading system, complemented by deeper levels of cross-border investment, has helped to sustain and grow global GDP.
He said it has helped to increase employment in many countries and spur innovation and new technologies.
“Yet, the heightened tension of this moment has led to fragmentation, hostility and increasing protectionism. For South Africa, a divided world is not a good thing. We are a trading nation, with above average trade-to-GDP ratios. A significant part of our economic growth is driven by exports.
“We believe that the voices advocating greater dialogue and continued economic engagement between nations need to be strengthened,” he said.
Trade and investment agenda
Turning to the trade and investment agenda, President Ramaphosa said that they are finalising the modalities for the imminent launch of trade under the African Continental Free Trade Area.
“We expect that the first goods to be traded under this free trade pact would commence within the next six months or sooner. The AfCFTA, as it is called, will cover 1.3 billion consumers in countries possessing some of the world’s most valuable minerals and raw materials,” he said.
South Africa is working with the US Administration to make the case for the extension of AGOA to current beneficiary countries for a further period of 10 years, prior to its expiry in 2025, President Ramaphosa said.
He emphasised that the US remains a very important economic partner in trade and investment, with great potential to further expand economic ties.
Accompanying this trade agenda, the President said government has embarked on far-reaching economic reforms, including the energy market being restructured.
Economic reform agenda
Turning to the economic reforms agenda, President Ramaphosa said the country is also focusing on expanding its industrial capacity.
“The availability of critical raw materials in South Africa and in neighbouring countries is driving efforts to expand high-value manufacturing. This is a real opportunity for more US investment that can leverage off the demonstrated manufacturing base of South Africa.
“African growth rates provide a stable growth in aggregate demand over the next decade and more,” he said.
The recently published African Economic Outlook for 2023 noted: “Growth is projected to rebound to 4% in 2023 and consolidate at 4.3% in 2024, underpinning Africa’s continued resilience to shocks.”
The report goes on to say that Africa is endowed with 30% of the world’s mineral resources and 65% of the world’s uncultivated arable land, the world’s most productive forests both in timber and carbon retention resources, and ample solar, wind and hydropower.
“With this kind of potential, savvy investors will be expanding… their base in South Africa and the rest of the continent.
“Our economic reform agenda also includes targeted measures to open the market for more South Africans to participate,” he said.
The President told the business leaders that South Africa has increased its target for its investment drive to R2 trillion over the next five years.
“To appreciate the great opportunities in our economy, I invite you to the next South Africa Investment Conference, to be held in March 2024,” he said.
The investment drive includes an expansion of Special Economic Zones, the most recent of which was built around the Ford Motor Company plant in the capital city, Pretoria. Around 10 large factories now produce components for the scaled-up Ford plant. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Tue, 09/19/2023 - 11:39
476 views
Gauteng calls for arrest of suspects involved in mass shooting
Gauteng calls for arrest of suspects involved in mass shooting
The Gauteng Provincial Legislature’s Portfolio Committee on Community Safety has welcomed measures and extra resources put in place to track down the suspects who opened fire on patrons at a tavern in Daveyton on Saturday.
The committee has learned with great concern that six men were killed and one injured during this horrific incident and requests members of the public, who have information that might lead to the arrest of those responsible, to bring the information to the attention of the police.
“The committee is of the view that the swift arrest of these suspects will contribute to bringing some form of closure to the families who lost their loved ones during these senseless killings,” the Portfolio Committee on Community Safety said in a statement.
While at this stage the motive of the killings is unknown, the committee is worried that the trend seen in 2022 of mass shootings in taverns is once again rearing its ugly head.
“The committee advocates for more tighter laws to regulate and control areas where alcohol is sold and consumed, as alcohol can be seen as major driver of crime related incidents in the province.
“Owners and operators of places where alcohol is consumed are urged to put stricter measures in place to ensure that patrons are safe at all times and avoid such incidents from taking place.
“Places where alcohol is consumed should be seen as places of leisure and not crime scenes, as witnessed during this past weekend,” the Committee said.
The Committee says it will continue to monitor developments around this matter until those who are responsible are brought to book and face the full might of the law. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Tue, 09/19/2023 - 09:57
43 views
Victim of wrongful arrest gets R2.6-million from Minister of Police
Ntokozo Patrick Xulu spent 813 days behind bars
Illegal miners to appear before Sabie Magistrate’s Court
Illegal miners to appear before Sabie Magistrate's Court
More than 60 suspects arrested over the weekend are expected to appear before the Sabie Magistrate's Court today on charges of illegal mining, among other things.
In total, 68 male suspects, aged between 19 and 54, were arrested in connection with illegal mining activities in Mpumalanga.
Amongst them, two were nabbed for human trafficking, meanwhile two others were charged for possession of unlicensed firearms with ammunition, while eight were nabbed for alleged kidnapping.
The successes are part of Operation Shanela in the province, which was carried out at Sabie on Saturday. All arrested suspects are facing charges relating to the contravention of the Immigration Act of South Africa.
According to the police report, the operation was conducted by a team consisting of members of the police from Provincial Organised Crime, members from Sabie Vispol, members from the Local Criminal Record Centre in Lydenburg, Lydenburg K-9 Unit, Department of Home Affairs, Department of Minerals and Resources, personnel from the Emergency Medical Services (EMS), and guards from Phoenix Security and Amandla Security.
An operation was carried out after a victim from Lesotho came to the Sabie police station last month to report a case of kidnapping.
An investigation was thoroughly conducted and information was gathered. The investigating team coordinated and executed a sting operation in the early hours on Saturday.
When members arrived at the site, they managed to arrest the alleged illegal miners, well known as 'zama zamas', where two firearms with ammunition were found amongst the suspects.
The members also nabbed eight individuals, who are suspected to have been behind the kidnapping of the Lesotho national.
A preliminary investigation by the police revealed that two of the suspects are allegedly involved in the human trafficking of people from Lesotho, who were used for illegal mining in Sabie.
Two suspects face charges of human trafficking and more charges could possibly be added against them as the investigation continues.
The investigators are adamant that there could be more criminal activities that these men might be involved in. A probe is underway, where other stakeholders are assisting to ensure that the law take its course.
The confiscated firearms will be taken for ballistic testing to determine whether they were used previously in the commission of crime.
The Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Lieutenant General Semakaleng Daphney Manamela, has commended the outstanding work that has been done by the collaborative team.
"We are very glad that not only was a huge number of suspects arrested, but two firearms were discovered.
“The issue of illegal mining is a concern in our country and we are happy that the public can see that the state, in conjunction with the private sector, is working hard to address the challenge, hence this success," she said. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Mon, 09/18/2023 - 09:24
780 views
Copper boom sparks conflict between mine and residents of Northern Cape town
We visited Concordia, where 29 people were arrested for protesting against a mine
No identity document, no life
Home Affairs in court over profound damage caused by its practice of “blocking” IDs
Winners at the 2023 African Conservation Awards
The 2023 African Conservation Awards, hosted by the Game Rangers' Association of Africa (GRAA) (https://www.GameRanger.org/) and sponsored by CNEI, took place on Saturday, September 16th, at the Southern African Wildlife College in Greater Kruger, South Africa.
This prestigious event honoured outstanding conservationists and showcased their exceptional contributions to protecting Africa's natural heritage.
Reflecting on the journey that led to this gathering, Dr. Larry Hansen, the visionary Founder of the African Conservation Awards said "13 years ago on a visit to The Kruger National Park there were three rhinos poached on the day I arrived. This shocking day led me to start the Rhino Conservation Awards 12 years ago together with Ms. Yu to honour and celebrate the brave conservation heroes that protect and do research on our wildlife.”
Every organisation and individual nominated for these awards has demonstrated exceptional determination to overcome formidable challenges. Often faced with daunting odds, they have showcased an unwavering commitment to their conservation missions. The African Conservation Awards serves as the vital stage where their exceptional efforts are rightfully acknowledged and celebrated.
“There are very few people who are willing to sacrifice to save wildlife,” adds Dr Hansen. “The expanded Awards have this year attracted nominations from 11 countries and incredible candidates. I wish to congratulate the winners and all of those nominated, they are TRUE HEROES and among the last protectors of the planet!"
The Winners for the 2023 African Conservation Awards are:
Best Field Ranger
Winner: Nkateko Letti Mzimba, Sergeant of Black Mambas Unit, Olifants West Nature Reserve, South Africa
Nkateko Letti Mzimba is a shining example of dedication and leadership in conservation. Her journey, beginning in 2014, reflects unwavering commitment and leadership that extends beyond routine patrols. Nkateko serves as a vigilant guardian of rhinos and other endangered species, diligently removing snares to protect wildlife. She also extends her caring hand to local communities, providing essential food and educational resources, and passionately educating the community's children about the importance of protecting nature.
1st Runner Up: Givemore Bako, Senior Ranger and Head Rhino Monitor, Savé Valley Conservancy, Zimbabwe
2nd Runner Up: Reginah Smith, Corporal of the Rhino Protection Unit, Pilanesberg Game Reserve, South Africa
Best Game Ranger
Winner: Amos Gwema, Principle Investigation and Security Officer, Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority, Zimbabwe
Amos Gwema is a dedicated wildlife protector in the Matebeleland region. His jurisdiction includes Hwange National Park, Zambezi National Park and Matopos National Park, which is renowned for its high rhino population. Amos's efforts have made a significant impact, notably reducing elephant and rhino poaching rates while achieving an impressive 95% conviction rate in Hwange and Bulawayo Magistrate courts. He also plays a crucial role in training rangers in wildlife law enforcement and intelligence techniques. Beyond his official duties, Amos engages in community projects, such as school programs and initiatives to encourage the safe surrender of wild animals, fostering a harmonious relationship between local communities and the natural world.
1st Runner Up: Petronella Chigumbura, Deputy Ranger Supervisor, Akashinga, Zimbabwe
2nd Runner Up: Orlat Ndlovu, Head of Ranger Services, Timbavati Private Nature Reserve, South Africa
Best Conservation Team
Winner: Wildlife Action Group, Thuma Forest Reserve and the Dedza Salima Escarpment Forest Reserve, Malawi
Wildlife Action Group (WAG), a Malawian non-profit conservation NGO, was created in 1996 in response to severe illegal commercial deforestation and poaching of wildlife in Thuma Forest. WAG's tireless efforts have restored ecological balance, ensuring the well-being of wildlife and the people of Malawi. They've played a vital role in reviving wildlife populations, preventing elephant poaching for five years, restoring 7,000+ hectares of degraded forest, reducing human-wildlife conflicts, and educating local schools about conservation.
1st Runner Up: Majete Wildlife Reserve, Malawi
2nd Runner Up: Zinave National Park, Mozambique
Best Conservation Supporter
Winner: Rhino Man, South Africa
Rhino Man, with their impactful 8-year film production, sheds light on the courageous South African rangers who risk everything to protect rhinos from extinction. This documentary honours these unsung heroes, showcasing their relentless dedication and the rigorous selection process they undergo. The film pays tribute to their late friend and training partner, Martin Mthembu, while also remembering the late and great Anton Mzimba, who dedicated his life to safeguarding the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve. Rhino Man's work is a testament to the invaluable role of rangers in protecting our precious natural world.
1st Runner Up: Joseph Serugo Ssalongo, Honorary Wildlife Officer, Uganda
2nd Runner Up: African Pangolin Working Group, South Africa
In a heartfelt video message, His Serene Highness Prince Albert II of Monaco, the esteemed Patron of the African Conservation Awards, paid tribute to the dedicated conservation heroes who have made the ultimate sacrifice. He honoured the memory of the 68 rangers who tragically lost their lives while safeguarding our natural heritage in the past 12 months. Additionally, Prince Albert extended his heartfelt tribute to the remarkable "633 African rangers killed in the fight for the preservation of our wilderness since 2011." His words resonated with deep respect for the thousands of individuals who daily face enormous risks, even putting their lives on the line, to protect the precious biodiversity, nature, and our planet, of which they are the unwavering and loyal stewards.
"Congratulations to all winners, runner ups and nominees of the 2023 African Conservation Awards! Your unwavering commitment to the conservation of our wildlife is both commendable and deeply inspiring. I wish to emphasize the pivotal role you each play in safeguarding our continent's invaluable natural resources. Your dedication to conservation is instrumental in shaping a brighter and more sustainable future for Africa. It is an honour and privilege for the Game Rangers' Association of Africa to recognise your remarkable achievements. Well done!" - Andrew Campbell, CEO, Game Rangers Association of Africa
The 2023 African Conservation Awards celebrated these exceptional individuals and organisations for their unwavering commitment to preserving Africa's natural heritage. They inspire us all to work toward a sustainable and harmonious future for our continent and its incredible wildlife.
In addition to the awards ceremony, the morning of the event witnessed the Game Rangers Association of Africa hosting the South Africa Hub Regional Challenge of the Wildlife Ranger Challenge. This unique sporting event took place at the South African Wildlife College, where rangers and their supporters united to run a challenging 21 kilometers in solidarity with wildlife rangers across Africa.
The primary objective of this initiative is to raise crucial funds in support of the courageous men and women on the front lines of Africa's protected areas. Beyond fundraising, the event also serves as a powerful platform to increase awareness of the ever-expanding and diverse roles that wildlife rangers undertake. These dedicated individuals are often operating with increasingly stretched resources, making their tireless efforts even more remarkable.
The African Conservation awards are hosted annually by the Game Rangers' Association of Africa (GRAA) and are made possible with the generous support of sponsors Chinese New Enterprise Investment (CNEI) and are endorsed by the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and Environment. His Serene Highness Prince Albert II of Monaco, who is committed to the protection of endangered species through the support of his Foundation, is the Patron of the African Conservation Awards.
For more information about the African Conservation Awards, please visit ConservationAwards.Africa.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Game Rangers Association of Africa.
Media Contact:
Game Rangers Association of Africa
Louise De Bruin
Email: info@gameranger.org
Love Africa Marketing
Casey Pratt
Email: casey@loveafricamarketing.com
Information:
- African Conservation Awards: https://www.ConservationAwards.Africa
- Game Rangers Association of Africa: https://www.GameRanger.org/
- Love Africa Marketing: https://www.LoveAfricaMarketing.com/
- Sponsors for the event: CNEI
GRAA background:
The Game Rangers' Association of Africa (GRAA) is a non-profit organisation, founded in 1970 which provides support, networks and representation for rangers across Africa. The GRAA is a proud member of the International Ranger Federation (IRF) and the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) where it serves as the voice of the African ranger.
High police visibility ahead of Prince Buthelezi funeral
High police visibility ahead of Prince Buthelezi funeral
Police visibility has been heightened ahead of the funeral of the late Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi in Ulundi, KwaZulu-Natal.
“Under the auspices of the National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure [NATJOINTS], the South African Police Service has mobilised its resources to ensure the safety and security of all attendees,” said the NATJOINTS in a statement ahead of Saturday’s funeral.
“The NATJOINTS, the PROVJOINTS and all law enforcement agencies as well as various other government departments, are working together to guarantee that the funeral takes place in a safe and secure environment.”
Buthelezi passed away on 9 September 2023, at the age of 95.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has honoured Buthelezi by declaring his funeral a Special Official funeral category 1. The President is also expected to deliver the eulogy at the funeral.
“The NATJOINTS has thus far assessed the state of readiness and preparedness of all law enforcement agencies and is satisfied with its security plan which includes, route, venue and other elements.”
Mourners who will be attending the funeral service have been urged to conduct themselves in an orderly and responsible manner.
Attendees have also been encouraged to cooperate with law enforcement officers and exercise patience.
“Amabutho and those who will be dressed in traditional regalia are advised that traditional spears and shields will be allowed at the venue in line with the Zulu tradition and culture and for the sole purpose of honouring the late Prince.
“However, members of the public are warned that no firearms will be permitted at the stadium and no illegal discharge of firearms will be tolerated.”
The NATJOINTS also reminded the community of Ulundi is reminded that during the Special Official Category 1 funeral, there will be a 21 Gun Salute.
“This means that extremely loud bangs will be heard in the vicinity that may have an effect on some people. Special care should be given to people suffering ill-health, the elderly and children.
“Owners of pets or domestic animals are also advised that these loud bangs are likely to severely agitate animals and therefore special provision should be made for them for the duration of the funeral ceremony.”
It added that the Prince Mangosuthu Regional Stadium is a no drone zone area. –SAnews.gov.za
Neo
Sat, 09/16/2023 - 08:37
174 views
Lynn Oberem from East London wins trip to Dubai
The winner of the Algoa FM Cruise to Dubai with XL Bay Travel competition is Lynn Oberem. Speaking after the draw at the Algoa FM studios, Oberem said she would be taking her daughter in law on the cruise. Oberem was the finalist from The Drive with Vinny in East London She who had a …
Law enforcement honing in on illegal mining kingpins
Law enforcement honing in on illegal mining kingpins
Law enforcement agencies have set their sights on arresting the kingpins which perpetuate illegal mining in South Africa.
This is according to Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, who was addressing the media on Thursday the outcomes of a Cabinet meeting held on Wednesday.
“In the first quarter of 2023 the Hawks arrested 611 suspects and seized various items including precious metals and diamonds, endangered species, vehicles, cash, firearms, ammunition, counterfeit goods, explosives and electronic devices worth R6 112 768 985.
“In addition, law enforcement arrested nine zama zama [illegal mining] kingpins and were granted preservation orders against their assets that include luxury vehicles such as a Lamborghini and precious metals and cash to the value of R34 million.
“This goes against the narrative that says in our fight against zama zamas we are only targeting runners. We are targeting the kingpins,” she said.
Ntshavheni said Cabinet had commended law enforcement agencies on “their fight to dismantle crime syndicates”.
“The successful actions in dealing with a heavily armed gang linked to a series of cash in transit heists in Limpopo is commendable. Cabinet reiterates that law enforcement should leave no stone unturned in dealing with those who seek to undermine South Africa’s national security and the laws of the Republic,” she said.
Turning to issues related to personal protective equipment (PPE) corruption, the Minister explained that although it is taking some time, progress is being made to bring wrongdoers to book.
“Cabinet welcomed the arrest of nine Northern Cape Department of Health officials for PPE corruption. The suspects are accused of fraud, corruption, money laundering and contravening the Public Finance Management Act.
“We know the impatience of our people in terms of the arrests of PPE corrupt officials and their business partners, but we are gradually making progress,” she said.
Regarding Operation Bring Back – which seeks to identify and recover illegally occupied buildings owned by the state – Minister Ntshavheni said Cabinet commended efforts to wrestle back control of hijacked buildings.
“As part of this initiative, the national government is providing support to municipalities to ensure the enforcement of by-laws to eradicate hijacking of buildings, their effective management and utilisation, and ability to account for the utilisation of government’s immovable assets,” she said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Thu, 09/14/2023 - 11:06
466 views
Officer testifies why he shot homeless man
“I believed they were going to injure me, take my gun and shoot me”
Coming together starts with ‘hello’ this Heritage Month
South Africa is a diverse country made up of vibrant, multicultural communities. This cultural richness is evident in the many languages, dialects, phrases, and expressions that make South Africa so unique. The recent addition of South African Sign Language to the country’s 11 existing official languages creates even more opportunities to connect. To celebrate the …
Silicosis: diagnosing the disease beyond the grave
Q(h)ubeka Trust finds way to pay out widow of miner in spite of lack of medical records
Silicosis: 68-year-old mineworker gets compensation payout months before he dies
Q(h)ubeka Trust winds up after paying out R420-million in compensation following court settlement with employers
Copper 360 School of Mining launches first courses
Nababeep, Northern Cape: The Copper 360 (Altx CPR) School of Mining debuted its first set of courses on 11 September at its Concordia operation in the Northern Cape. The company announced the development of the training facility in August. The school will launch with seven courses: Basic Surface Geology, Sampling, Ore Body Technician, Mineral Resource …
“I was fearing for my life” officer tells court during homeless murder trial
Her colleague is on trial after Dumisani Joxo was shot and killed in 2022
New Faces And Trading Places – Celebrating The Women Of Cox Yeats
Durban, South Africa – “This year marks 100 years since the promulgation of the Women Legal Practitioners Act 7 of 1923, enabling women to practice law and changing the trajectory of the legal profession for ever,” says Andrew Clark, Managing Partner of Cox Yeats in Durban. “We are thrilled to have welcomed four new female …
Minister Gordhan will apply the law regarding Mango Airlines judgement
Minister Gordhan will apply the law regarding Mango Airlines judgement
Public Enterprises Minister Pravin Gordhan has in a statement emphasised his responsibility to apply the law and policies that govern the way he dispenses his oversight of State Owned Companies (SOCs) as the government shareholder representative.
This in relation to the Pretoria High Court’s decision ordering that the Minister decide on the sale of South African Airways (SAA) subsidiary, Mango Airlines, within 30 days as proposed by the business rescue practitioner.
Gordhan said he is studying the judgement and will proceed on the basis of legal advice he receives on the matter.
“My duty as the executive authority is to safeguard the interests of South Africans. At no point will I abandon my fiduciary responsibility to ensure that any decision that is taken regarding the future of Mango is consistent with the prescripts of the law and is in the best interest of the public.
“The issues around this case evolve around my request for further information from the business rescue practitioner. This is what the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA) requires in order to make a judiciously sound decision. I will not be bullied to act in a manner that will compromise the work of government in this regard.
“While we respect the decision of the Court, the department will ensure that we follow all the prescripts of the law in terms of how we execute on our responsibility to put all our SOCs on a stable footing,” Minister Gordhan added.
According to the department, Gordhan requested the following information from the business rescue practitioner to “enable him to make the decision on the PFMA Section 54 (2) application”:
- Detailed business plan to assess the consortium's viability.
- Comprehensive due diligence.
- Foreign ownership details to comply with South African laws.
“Despite several requests, the Minister was not furnished with the requested information. The Minister cannot make a decision based on insufficient information,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Tue, 09/12/2023 - 10:18
257 views